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Love Quote by Annie Proulx

“On the stairs an image came to him. Was love then like a bag of assorted sweets passed around from which one might choose more than once? Some might sting the tongue, some invoke night perfume. Some had centers as bitter as gall, some blended honey and poison, some were quickly swallowed. And…” quote by Annie Proulx
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““On the stairs an image came to him. Was love then like a bag of assorted sweets passed around from which one might choose more than once? Some might sting the tongue, some invoke night perfume. Some had centers as bitter as gall, some blended honey and poison, some were quickly swallowed. And among the common bull's-eyes and peppermints a few rare ones; one or two with deadly needles at the heart, another that brought calm and gentle pleasure. Were his fingers closing on that one?””

Annie Proulx

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Shipping News, Annie Proulx, 1993

Love is portrayed as a varied assortment of experiences, some sweet, some painful, some dangerous, and some soothing, reflecting its complex nature.

In simple terms: Love is a mix of sweet and bitter moments.

Key Takeaway

Recognize love’s diversity and choose wisely.

Themes

love experience choice complexity emotion

Mood

reflective melancholic introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • personal introspection
  • artistic expression
  • emotional decision making

Key Concepts

sensory metaphor dual nature risk reward

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which love experience has shaped you most?
  • How do you balance desire and caution?
A Different Perspective

Love can be overwhelming and lead to indecision.

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